Top 10 Biggest NFL Draft Steals of All-Time

By Jason Bolton April 24, 2024 13:37

The NFL Draft is an event where teams select eligible players to join the league.

While the early rounds of the draft typically receive the most attention, some of the greatest players in NFL history have been selected in the later rounds or even gone undrafted.

These players, known as draft steals, have gone on to have remarkable careers, often exceeding the expectations placed on them during the draft.

1. Tom Brady, QB, 2000 NFL Draft, 6th Round, 199th Overall - New England Patriots

Tom Brady is perhaps the ultimate draft steal. Selected in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft, Brady went on to become one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.

With seven Super Bowl victories, three NFL MVP awards, and numerous other accolades, Brady's impact on the game is unparalleled.

2. Joe Montana, QB, 1979 NFL Draft, 3rd Round, 82nd Overall - San Francisco 49ers

Joe Montana was a third-round pick in the 1979 NFL Draft. He went on to lead the San Francisco 49ers to four Super Bowl victories and was named Super Bowl MVP three times.

Montana's ability to perform in high-pressure situations earned him the nickname "Joe Cool," and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.

3. Shannon Sharpe, TE, 1990 NFL Draft, 7th Round, 192nd Overall - Denver Broncos

Selected in the seventh round of the 1990 NFL Draft, Shannon Sharpe exceeded all expectations. He revolutionized the tight end position and was a key player for the Denver Broncos and later the Baltimore Ravens.

Sharpe was a dominant force on the field and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

4. Terrell Davis, RB, 1995 NFL Draft, 6th Round, 196th Overall - Denver Broncos

Terrell Davis was a sixth-round pick in the 1995 NFL Draft. Despite being selected late, he became one of the most dominant running backs of his era.

Davis played a crucial role in the Denver Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories and was named Super Bowl MVP in 1998.

5. Bart Starr, QB, 1956 NFL Draft, 17th Round, 200th Overall - Green Bay Packers

Selected in the 17th round of the 1956 NFL Draft, Bart Starr became a legendary figure for the Green Bay Packers. He led the team to five NFL championships and was named the MVP of the first two Super Bowls.

Starr's leadership and exceptional play cemented his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.

6. Richard Dent, DE, 1983 NFL Draft, 8th Round, 203rd Overall - Chicago Bears

Richard Dent was chosen in the eighth round of the 1983 NFL Draft. Despite being a late-round pick, Dent went on to have a stellar career as a defensive end.

He was a key member of the dominant 1985 Chicago Bears defense that won Super Bowl XX, and he was named the game's MVP.

Dent's impact on the field was immense, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

7. Roger Staubach, QB, 1964 NFL Draft, 10th Round, 129th Overall - Dallas Cowboys

Roger Staubach was a 10th-round pick in the 1964 NFL Draft. After fulfilling his military commitment, Staubach joined the Dallas Cowboys and became one of the most successful quarterbacks in franchise history.

He led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories and was known for his clutch performances in critical moments.

8. Deacon Jones, DE, 1961 NFL Draft, 14th Round, 186th Overall - Los Angeles Rams

Deacon Jones was selected in the 14th round of the 1961 NFL Draft.

He went on to revolutionize the defensive end position and coined the term "sack" to describe his devastating tackles on opposing quarterbacks.

Jones was a dominant force on the field and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980.

9. Johnny Unitas, QB, 1955 NFL Draft, 9th Round, 102nd Overall - Pittsburgh Steelers

Johnny Unitas was a ninth-round pick in the 1955 NFL Draft. Despite being drafted low, Unitas went on to become one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history.

He played a significant role in popularizing the two-minute drill and was known for his remarkable come-from-behind victories.

10. Terrell Owens, WR, 1996 NFL Draft, 3rd Round, 89th Overall - San Francisco 49ers

Terrell Owens was a third-round pick in the 1996 NFL Draft. He became one of the most dynamic and controversial wide receivers in NFL history.

Owens' remarkable athleticism and skill set made him a game-changing player, and he left an indelible mark on the teams he played for throughout his career.

The NFL Draft has produced numerous legends who were selected later than expected or went undrafted.

These players defied the odds and went on to have remarkable careers, leaving an enduring legacy in the annals of NFL history.

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